Livestock market approvals

Eligibility criteria

A premises will be approved as a market if the planning, construction and operation of the market meet the standards set by DARD for that premises.
The approval requirements include the provision of covered accommodation for the protection of some animals such as calves and facilities for the washing of vehicles used in transporting animals.

Planning approval granted by the Northern Ireland Planning Service may also be required and it is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure this has been granted.

Regulation summary

A copy of the regulations can be obtained by contacting DARD using the contact details below.

Application evaluation process

Once an application is received you will be contacted by DARD within 15 working days to arrange an inspection visit. The approval process will be discussed at the visit and an indication on when approval will be granted will also be given at this point. When the inspection report is completed, providing all conditions are met, notice of approval will be issued within 10 working days. Normally approval is granted within 40 working days of an application being received.

In some cases the application process may take longer for instance where major structural work is required. In these instances the applicant will be kept informed of when approval is likely to be granted

Will tacit consent apply?

No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from DARD within a reasonable period, please contact us. You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or use the contact details below.

Apply online

• Apply for a licence

Failed application redress

Applicants will have an opportunity to discuss and redress issues affecting their eligibility during the approval process so that applications are not rejected.

If an application is not approved, where necessary, applicants should contact the DARD using the contact details below.

Consumer complaint

If you have a complaint about an approved premises we would advise that the first contact is made with the premises by you - preferably in the form of a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, please contact the Department using the details below.

Contact details

Further information can be obtained by contacting DARD at the address below:

E-mail: DARD.ImplementationSupportUnit@dardni.gov.uk

List of currently approved markets